In the face of unimaginable tragedy, the people of Plateau State have come together in a remarkable display of unity and compassion, transcending religious and ethnic divides. The recent collapse of a school building in Busa Buji street, Jos, has left a community in mourning, but it has also brought to the forefront the resilience and solidarity that defines the Plateau spirit.
As I stood at Bingham Teaching Hospital in the aftermath of the accident, I witnessed a scene that will be etched in my memory forever. Christians and Muslims, united in their grief, embraced each other in tears, their faces contorted in pain. The wails of the children trapped under the rubble still echo in my mind, a haunting reminder of the fragility of life.
Yet, amidst the chaos and devastation, something remarkable happened. Plateau people from all walks of life, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, came together to rescue the trapped children. It was a spontaneous outpouring of humanity, a testament to the inherent goodness that exists within us all.
This unprecedented show of solidarity is a direct result of the spirit of reconciliation that Governor Caleb Mufwang has tirelessly advocated for. His vision of a united Plateau State, where differences are celebrated and conflicts are resolved through dialogue, has resonated deeply with the people.
In this moment of tragedy, the people of Plateau have come together as one, united in their grief and their determination to support each other. The collapse of the school building has become a catalyst for healing, a reminder that our shared humanity is far greater than our differences.
As we mourn the loss of our children and teachers, we take comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone. We are surrounded by a community that cares, a community that will support us through the darkest of times. The pain of this tragedy will linger, but it will also serve as a reminder of the strength that lies within us.
God is indeed healing our land in Plateau State. He is comforting us in our mourning, and He is guiding us towards a brighter future. As we move forward, let us hold on to this spirit of unity and solidarity, let us continue to embrace each other in our diversity, and let us never forget the power of compassion and love in the face of adversity.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has reechoed To the people of Plateau State, he is offering his deepest gratitude the unwavering support and solidarity. He reiterated that the actions of the Plateau people have inspired all, and the example will be a beacon of hope for generations to come. He concluded that may God continue to guide and protect us as Plateau people and may we always remember that we are stronger together than we are apart.
On my sides I pray that may the souls of our departed children and teachers rest in peace, and may their memories continue to inspire us to build a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. Amen.
By Associate Professor Elias Nankap Lamle.
Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies, University of Jos.
